While the format of a common test had met with opposition from some sections in the Indian Institutes of Technology, the university heads in a meeting with HRD minister Kapil Sibal on Monday gave their “in-principle” approval to the new format. Sources said that the universities had agreed to give a minimum of 40% weightage to board marks. At present, several deemed universities conduct their own entrance tests, while some adopt AIEEE scores and the rest take state JEE (CET) results.

The varsities would have the freedom to choose appropriate weightages for performance in Class XII Boards and the main exam standardized on percentile basis. Universities willing to give 100% weightage to class XII board marks performance for admission were also welcome to do so, though 40% would be the minimum.

The ministry has, however, been cautious in its approach. It has asked universities to respond to the proposal formally, and also announced that any concerns would be dealt with in subsequent meetings.

It is understood that students aspiring to join engineering programs under these universities would not have to appear for the advance test as has been proposed under the new system.